Akshay Kumar, known for featuring in various biographical movies from Mission Raniganj to Gold, is now coming back with his upcoming movie, Sarfira. This highly anticipated film, gearing up to release on July 12, 2024, is a Hindi remake of the critically acclaimed Tamil film, Soorarai Pottru (2020), which featured South actor Suriya. Both of the films have the same origin story.
Sarfira revolves around the inspirational journey of G. R. Gopinath, known as the father of Indian low-cost airlines. Capt. Gopinath didn’t just dream of making air travel affordable for everyone but made it a reality, offering tickets for as low as Rs 1.
His efforts revolutionized the aviation industry in India, turning what was once a luxury into a more accessible mode of travel for many. G. R. Gopinath, the founder of Deccan Airlines, rose from being a poor village boy to establishing India’s largest airline.
As the release date of Sarfira approaches, here’s a list of must-watch Indian movies based on true stories.
Srikanth
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Based on the life of Srikanth Bolla, the recently released film tells the inspiring story of a visually impaired man who overcame numerous challenges to become a successful entrepreneur. Srikanth, born blind, faced societal and educational hurdles but never gave up on his dreams.
He founded Bollant Industries, a company that employs hundreds of people with disabilities. Similar to how Sarfira’s inspiration chose to create opportunity where there was none. Additionally, the film features Rajkummar Rao, Alaya F, and Jyothika.
Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life)
Aadujeevitham, based on the novel by Benyamin, is a gripping tale of survival. The story follows Najeeb (played by Prithviraj Sukumaran). He is a migrant worker in Saudi Arabia, who endures harrowing conditions while working as a goat herder in the desert. Moreover, the film highlights themes of resilience and hope, portraying Najeeb’s struggle to return home against all odds.
Maidaan
Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Maidaan is a biographical sports drama based on the life of Syed Abdul Rahim, the coach who transformed Indian football in the 1950s and 1960s. Featuring Ajay Devgn, the film chronicles Rahim’s journey and his efforts to bring the Indian football team to international prominence, chronicling the golden era of Indian football.
Amar Singh Chamkila
Streaming Platform: Netflix
This film depicts the never-known life of Amar Singh Chamkila, a controversial Punjabi singer and songwriter whose career was cut short by his tragic assassination. Chamkila’s music, known for its raw and candid portrayal of Punjab’s socio-economic issues, made him a legendary figure in the Punjabi music industry.
After all, known for his provocative lyrics and unique style, Chamkila’s music resonated with the masses despite the controversies surrounding him. Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeta Chopra’s film showcases his rise to fame. Moreover, it shows the circumstances leading to his untimely death, similar to chronicling the journey of Capt. Gopinath in Sarfira.
Sam Bahadur
Streaming Platform: ZEE5
Sam Bahadur is a biographical drama based on the life of Sam Manekshaw, India’s first Field Marshal. Featuring Vicky Kaushal, the film highlights Manekshaw’s illustrious military career, his leadership during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, and his significant contributions to the Indian Army. The movie pays tribute to one of India’s most respected military figures.
Neerja
Streaming Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Neerja is a gripping thriller based on the true story of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who sacrificed her life while saving passengers from hijackers on Pan Am Flight 73 in 1986. Played by Sonam Kapoor, Neerja’s bravery and quick thinking prevented a greater tragedy, earning her accolades and posthumous awards for her heroism.
As viewers eagerly await the release of Akshay Kumar’s Sarfira, these true story-based movies offer a glimpse into the lives of remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on history.
